Gene Turned off in Pancreatic Cancer

Pancreatic Cancer, the fifth most deadly cancer, is an agressive disease that leaves less than one in five patients alive after a year of diagnosis. However, scientist believe they may have a drug that could be effective in some cases of pancreatic cancer. Research showed that a gene, UPS9x, is switched off, instead of mutated, in cancerous cells related to pancreatic cancer. Studies show that chemical tags on the surface of DNA are responsible for it being switched on and off. Drugs whcih strip these tags away are already available and showing promise in the fight against lung cancer. These findings raise hope in finding a new class of drugs that will effectively treat pancreatic cancer and increase the chances of survival.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/health-17870315

It's always fantastic to hear about advancements in the medical field, but it is especially exciting when it can give hope to individuals suffering from cancer. Genetics and cell biology are clearly beginning to take on a larger role in the treatment and prevention of disease, which is really phenomenal because it ensures that the root of the problem is targeted in addition to offering a better chance of survival to patients undergoing treatment. We will hopefully see cures for other forms of cancer emerge in the near future by similar means.